Choosing a Digital Camcorder:

4 Questions to Ask

Capturing memories is important to all people as life seems to move faster
and faster. Choosing a digital
camcorder may seem like a daunting task, but there are several key factors
to consider. These include the format, resolution, zoom and connection options.
Read below for more on these factors so that you can ask your Camcor Representative
about them when choosing a digital
camcorder.

Resolution

When choosing a digital
camcorder, you also should ask your Camcor Representative about resolution.

Most camcorders use a single chip that sees the entire spectrum of color.
The CCD, which is a light sensitive chip, will be rated in pixels and size.
Generally speaking, larger higher pixel count camcorders have better video
quality.

Some professional / consumer grade camcorders use three separate chips,
each seeing 1/3 of the color spectrum. This lends to higher video quality.

Zoom

Zoom is also an important aspect when choosing a digital
camcorder. Zoom makes things appear closer than they really are, and
it is much easier to get a high zoom on a camcorder than on a camera.

Optical zoom uses physical movement within the body of the lens to make
things appear closer. No degradation of quality.

Be careful though; the more you zoom, the more the slightest camera movement
will appear very drastic. It is best to use a tripod on high zooms.

In addition, the size of the CCD chip, which affects video quality, might
directly affect the amount of zoom. It is not uncommon for the highest zooms
to be on the lowest quality camcorders and the higher quality camcorders
to have some of the lowest zooms.

Many camcorders also offer differing levels of image stabilization. This
technology generally uses a sensor in the lens to detect movement. It then
adjusts the lens accordingly to help give you smoother video.

Other Options

There are many other aspects to consider when choosing a digital
camcorder that is right for you. If features like wide screen recording,
auxiliary mic inputs, larger LCD screens or camera editing effects are
important to you, be sure to ask your Camcor Representative to help you
determine the options that are best for you.